HBO has acquired U.S. broadcast rights to documentary feature “Me @ the Zoo,” which focuses on the phenomenon of Internet celebrity.

“Zoo,” an official selection for the 2012 Sundance Film Festival documentary competish, is a first-time directorial effort from Chris Moukarbel and Valerie Veatch. Vin Farrell, Jim McKay and R.E.M. singer Michael Stipe of C-Hundred Film exec produced with Rachel Grady.

Using as a focal point Chris Crocker, who gained notoriety with a YouTube appeal to for people to lay off criticizing Britney Spears, “Zoo” explores how online video and social networks have affected lives.

Josh Braun at Submarine negotiated the deal with HBO Documentary Films. Memento Films is handling international rights.
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